Pyne,J (2011) (6, Cis Cisnormativity, changes in social work literature, service for Trans people)

Key Themes and Concepts

1. Trans Representation in Social Work Literature

   • Historically grouped under LGBTQ, but trans experiences require distinct focus.

   • Early literature (1970s-90s) pathologized trans identities (e.g., Gender Identity Disorder).

   • Post-1990s: Shift toward anti-oppressive approaches and anti-transphobia awareness in social work.

2. Understanding Cisnormativity

   • Definition: The privileging of non-trans (cisgender) norms.

   • Origin of Term: Derived from the Latin "cis-" meaning "on the same side as."

   • Impact:

     • Reinforces the invisibility and marginalization of trans experiences.

     • Encourages assumptions about stable binary genders, ignoring gender diversity.

3. Barriers for Trans People in Shelter Services

   • Homelessness risk factors: Discrimination, familial rejection, lack of access to gender transition resources.

   • Shelters structured around binary genders often exclude or scrutinize trans individuals.

   • Documented challenges:

     • Denial of access.

     • Special restrictive rules for trans residents.

     • Increased risk of violence, addiction, and suicide for those excluded.

4. Cisnormativity in Service Provision

   • Erasure of Trans People:

     • Intake forms, assessments, and policies fail to accommodate non-binary or trans identities.

     • Lack of trans-specific content in training for service providers.

   • Hyper-Visibility of Trans People:

     • Disproportionate scrutiny and judgment of trans bodies in shelters.

   • Root Cause: Assumption that cisgender experience is universal.

5. Shelter-Specific Issues

   • Gendered facilities exclude or marginalize:

     • Trans women in women’s shelters (e.g., requiring hormone therapy, feminine dress).

     • Trans men and gender-queer individuals in both men’s and women’s shelters.

   • Exclusion exacerbates vulnerabilities to violence, health issues, and mental health struggles.

6. Advocacy and Change

   • Examples like Toronto's Trans Access Project address these barriers through inclusion training and policy reform.

   • Progress remains uneven:

     • Feminine trans women face fewer barriers.

     • Trans men and gender-queer individuals remain underserved.

7. Framework for Change

   • Challenge Cisnormativity:

     • Incorporate trans experiences in research, policy, and education.

     • Question gender-specific service models and their impact on all users.

   • Broader Implications:

     • Consider the sexist homogenization of cis women's experiences in service provision.

     • Foster inclusive environments that benefit all genders